.png)
OSM Worldwide: 2024 Holiday Season Shipping Schedule

https://www.vesyl.com/osm-worldwide-2024-holiday-season-shipping-schedule
As the holiday season approaches, it’s important for shippers to plan ahead to ensure timely deliveries for their customers. To help you plan ahead, we’ve compiled all of the essential details regarding OSM's 2024 holiday schedules and shipping deadlines.
Holiday Schedule
OSM Worldwide will observe closures at its primary processing hubs during the following dates:
- Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, November 28, 2024
- Christmas Day: Wednesday, December 25, 2024
These closures will affect processing times, so it’s crucial to plan accordingly to avoid any delays during this peak period.
Holiday Shipping Deadlines
Domestic
- APO/FPO/OPO Mail - December 7th
- Domestic Mail (National Delivery) - December 16th
- Domestic Mail (Regional Delivery) - December 19th
International
- Africa - November 27th
- Central & South America - November 27th
- Asia/Pacific Rim - December 4th
- Australia & New Zealand - December 4th
- Canada - December 4th
- Caribbean - December 4th
- Mexico - December 4th
- Europe - December 4th
- Middle East - December 4th
For further questions, please feel free to reach out to our team through the chat box on our site or at hello@VESYL.com. Happy shipping!
Carter made this CMS template to help the VESYL Team
VESYL is Lit and I've enjoyed working on this project and pushing some limits. Seriously, you can fact check me.
"Carter's Tutorial Updates: Now remember, I've only setup 3 quotes templates, but for real we shouldn't need more than 3. If not, call me."
.png)
With the average return rates for e-commerce stores between 20-30%, according to Shopify, return logistics can no longer be overlooked. Not only does smooth returns enhance the customer experience, but also removes costly and timely bottlenecks for brands. In this guide, we'll dive into the world of return logistics, exploring best practices and strategies.
The Importance of Return Logistics
Return logistics are the processes involved in handling product returns, exchanges, and refunds in the e-commerce ecosystem. The inability to touch, try and see items in person first, make returns an inevitable part of e-commerce. Whether it’s due to sizing or fit issues, a defective or faulty item, or a number of other potential reasons, providing a smooth returns process can enhance your brand reputation, customer loyalty and give you the competitive edge. Think of it as the brand's opportunity to shift a negative experience into a positive and memorable one.
Best Practices in Return Logistics
Clear and Transparent Return Policies
A clear and transparent return policy removes the guesswork and lets your customers know exactly what to expect if they need to return or exchange an item. This increased transparency builds trust with customers and leads to loyal customers.
The return policy should be easily accessible on your website. Some brands choose to include it in a drop down menu on the product listing itself along with sizing and product information. This enables customers to make informed decisions without needing to search the website or contact the CX team.
A clear and transparent returns policy needs to include:
- The time frame for returns and exchanges period. Most customers expect a 30 day return policy.
- The conditions required for all returned products.
- If you have different policies and requirements for different products, make sure these are clearly outlined and communicated.
- Clearly outline any return costs. Free returns are a big draw for online shoppers. Brands can also outline different costs for different return reasons, such as the customer is required to pay the return fees if the reason for return is that they changed their mind. However, for a faulty or damaged product, the brand covers the return fees.
- Give clear step-by-step instructions on how customers can initiate a return. Include key information about whether they need to return the item in the original packaging, where they can locate the return label and once again the condition the item needs to be returned in. (For more straightforward returns, leverage VESYL’s QR codes, allowing customers to download the QR code and take it to their local drop off point, without needing to print any labels.)
Simplified Return Processes
Streamline the returns process by providing multiple return options like online returns, in-store returns, or drop-off locations. This accommodates varying customer preferences and situations, ensuring convenience and flexibility. For example, Amazon's "Online Returns Center" simplifies returns with a user-friendly interface, allowing customers to initiate returns swiftly and effortlessly. By diversifying return channels and leveraging user-friendly platforms, businesses can optimize the returns experience, reduce friction, and ultimately foster stronger customer relationships. Brands can also leverage returns software to centralize return tickets in one place, provide a simple user interface for customers to use and provide detailed information on the progress of the return.
Within shipments on VESYL, under actions, you can create a return label on a shipment, allowing you to quickly and easily get return labels over to your customer to return an item.
Efficient Return Handling
To optimize efficiency in return handling, it's essential to invest in streamlined procedures that minimize processing time and costs. Automation tools and dedicated teams play a crucial role in managing returns promptly and accurately. By leveraging automated return processing systems, like ASOS does, businesses can efficiently handle high volumes of returns, mitigating manual workload and reducing processing time. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also ensures timely resolution for customers, leading to improved satisfaction and retention. Embracing technology and implementing efficient workflows are key strategies to increase efficiency in return management, ultimately driving better outcomes for both businesses and customers.
Encouraging Exchanges Over Returns
By offering incentives such as free return shipping labels for exchanges or store credits, businesses can incentivize customers to opt for exchanges, retaining revenue and fostering positive relationships. For example, brands can offer a gift card for a slightly higher value than the original purchase to encourage customers to continue their journey with the brand. Finally, by leveraging easy-to-use exchanges software allows customers to quickly pick the product size, color or type they wanted to exchange for. This streamlines the process by reducing the need to speak to a CX representative and providing the customer with the options at their fingertips.
In Conclusion
With the increase in online shopping, the demand for excellent customer service and quicker resolutions, mastering return logistics can set your brand ahead in an increasingly competitive landscape. By implementing best practices such as clear return policies, simplified processes, and encouraging exchanges, businesses can streamline their return logistics while providing exceptional customer experiences. Remember, prioritizing exchanges over returns not only reduces the strain on your team but also strengthens customer relationships, ultimately driving long-term success.
The holiday season is here, bringing with it the hustle and bustle that keeps shippers busy right through to the New Year. While we can't prepare your holiday feast or wrap presents, we’re here to make shipping easy. To help you plan ahead and ensure timely deliveries, we’ve put together a complete list of the USPS 2024 holiday shipping deadlines. With these dates in mind, you can keep your customers happy and stress-free this holiday season!
2024 Holiday Shipping Dates for Contiguous U.S. (Lower 48 States)
Recommended send-by dates for expected delivery before December 25. (Excludes Alaska & Hawaii).
- USPS Ground Advantage® Service - December 18th
- First Class Mail® Service - December 18th
- Priority Mail® Service - December 18th
- Priority Mail Express® Service - December 21st
2024 Holiday Shipping Dates for Alaska & Hawaii
Recommended send-by dates for expected delivery before December 25.
USPS Ground Advantage® Service
- Alaska - December 16th
- Hawaii - December 16th
First-Class Mail® Service
- Alaska - December 18th
- Hawaii - December 18th
Priority Mail® Service
- Alaska - December 19th
- Hawaii - December 19th
Priority Mail Express® Service
- Alaska - December 20th
- Hawaii - December 20th
2024 Holiday Shipping Dates for International Mail
Recommended send-by dates for expected delivery before December 25.
Africa
- First Class Package International Service® - December 2nd
- Priority Mail International® Service - December 2nd
- Priority Mail Express International® Service - December 9th
Asia/Pacific Rim
- First Class Package International Service® - December 9th
- Priority Mail International® Service - December 9th
- Priority Mail Express International® Service - December 16th
Australia/New Zealand
- First Class Package International Service® - December 9th
- Priority Mail International® Service - December 9th
- Priority Mail Express International® Service - December 16th
Canada
- First Class Package International Service® - December 9th
- Priority Mail International® Service - December 9th
- Priority Mail Express International® Service - December 16th
Caribbean
- First Class Package International Service® - December 9th
- Priority Mail International® Service - December 9th
- Priority Mail Express International® Service - December 16th
Central & South America
- First Class Package International Service® - December 2nd
- Priority Mail International® Service - December 2nd
- Priority Mail Express International® Service - December 9th
Europe
- First Class Package International Service® - December 9th
- Priority Mail International® Service - December 9th
- Priority Mail Express International® Service - December 16th
Mexico
- First Class Package International Service® - December 9th
- Priority Mail International® Service - December 9th
- Priority Mail Express International® Service - December 16th
Middle East
- First Class Package International Service® - December 9th
- Priority Mail International® Service - December 9th
- Priority Mail Express International® Service - December 16th
2024 Holiday Shipping Dates for Military Mail
Recommended send-by dates for expected delivery before December 25.
USPS Ground Advantage® Service
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 090-092 - November 4th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 093 - November 4th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 094-099 - November 4th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 340 - November 4th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 962-966 - November 4th
First-Class Mail® Service
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 090-092 - December 9th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 093 - December 9th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 094-099 - December 9th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 340 - December 9th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 962-966 - December 9th
Priority Mail® Service
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 090-092 - December 9th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 093 - December 9th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 094-099 - December 9th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 340 - December 9th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 962-966 - December 9th
Priority Mail Express Military® Service (PMEMS)
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 090-092 - December 16th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 093 - N/A
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 094-099 - December 16th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 340 - December 16th
- APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 962-966 - December 16th
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly through the chat box on our website or at hello@VESYL.com.
.png)
As we kick off 2024, driven by technological advancements, consumer expectations, and global market dynamics, the logistics side of e-commerce is set to witness some exciting advancements . This article dives into e-commerce logistics trends to know for 2024, offering insights into the innovations and strategies shaping the logistics landscape in the coming year. From sustainability initiatives and advancements in artificial intelligence to the enhancement of last-mile delivery, this article aims to equip businesses with the knowledge they need to navigate and streamline logistics for both small shippers, to 100MM + companies.
Sustainability Is Key in Logistics Operations
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword, it’s a demand. In 2024, e-commerce stores are integrating more eco-friendly practices into their supply chains, from adopting sustainable or reusable packaging, offsetting the equivalent carbon emissions associated with shipping, to optimizing transportation routes for reduced carbon footprint. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing environmentally conscious brands, making sustainable logistics a key element for both customer loyalty and corporate responsibility.
Diversify Suppliers With Increased Supply Chain Risks
Since the impact of COVID disrupted the just-in-time inventory model, retailers have become more cautious about inventory levels and sourcing. A significant trend is the rise of nearshoring, the practice of moving business operations to a nearby country. Latin American countries, including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Mexico, have seen increased manufacturing, attracting notable foreign direct investment. The region is expected to experience further growth, with a poll indicating that 50% of US companies not currently manufacturing in Latin America plan to do so in the next five years.
Additionally, manufacturing in Asia is diversifying. While China remains a major global manufacturer, other Southeast Asian nations like Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand are gaining ground and reducing China's dominance in exports post-pandemic.
AI-Driven Efficiency Enhancements
This year, Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to revolutionize logistics operations. E-commerce stores are strategically leveraging AI for precise demand forecasting, efficient inventory management, and optimized route planning. These machine learning algorithms analyze datasets to predict consumer trends, allowing for better inventory management and minimizing instances of stockouts. For route optimization, these algorithms collect data to help to streamline delivery routes, enhance overall efficiency in transportation processes, and in turn, cut costs. Finally, AI is becoming an increasingly valuable tool in customer service, with e-commerce stores utilizing it to provide personalized assistance and seamless and responsive experience for consumers.
Cybersecurity in the Supply Chain
With the digitalization of logistics operations, and the rise in cyber crimes, the need for robust cybersecurity measures is crucial. E-commerce stores in 2024 are prioritizing cybersecurity to safeguard sensitive data and protect against potential threats. Secure data transmission, encryption protocols, and multi-layered authentication systems are becoming standard practices in the e-commerce supply chain. It's recommended for businesses to run a complete security audit at least once a year to identify both the strengths and any weaknesses.
{{quote-component-1}}
Quick and Efficient Last-Mile Shipping Solutions
Last-mile delivery remains a focal point in e-commerce logistics, and 2024 is witnessing solutions aimed at making it faster, more efficient and more secure. Companies and couriers are exploring more options including autonomous delivery vehicles and smart delivery lockers to expedite the final leg of the shipping journey. Real-time tracking, dynamic route optimization, and strategic partnerships with local delivery services are becoming important components of last-mile logistics strategies, ensuring fast and reliable deliveries that meet customer expectations.
Save yourself the leg-work and let VESYL App compare carrier rates and shipping speeds for your packages, all in one click. Learn more and book a demo today.
Elevating Customer-Centric Experiences
The importance of the customer experience continues to lead the way in the e-commerce landscape, and logistics play a pivotal role in shaping it. From prioritizing personalized and convenient delivery experiences to delightful unboxing experiences, the customer experience stands firmly at the forefront of creating a loyal and repeat customer base. To stay competitive, it’s crucial for brands to provide real-time communication on delivery status and flexible delivery options. Additionally, statistics show the total return rate for 2023 was 14.5% as a percentage of sales, which doesn’t sound like much, but still equates to $743 billion in merchandise. As customers increasingly seek hassle-free return experiences, e-commerce retailers are exploring ways to simplify this process to enhance customer retention. These simplified processes include third-party services that can pick up returns directly from customers and initiatives like Amazon’s no-label no-box returns are particularly appealing to consumers without access to a printer.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, the e-commerce logistics landscape in 2024 is marked by a blend of sustainability, AI-driven efficiency, robust cybersecurity measures, innovations in last-mile shipping, and a commitment to customer-centric experiences. By embracing these trends, brands can position themselves as industry leaders, driving growth and maintaining a competitive edge in the years to come.